Manassas Criminal Defense Lawyers

December 4, 2015admin

AGGRESSIVE ATTORNEYS YOU CAN TRUST

The Reed Law Firm is a Manassas criminal defense law firm devoted to the defense of people charged with a crime in Prince William County, and throughout Northern Virginia. The defense attorneys at our offices bring the benefit of their unique perspective and knowledge to their clients which results directly from their experience. The attorneys at The Reed Law Firm are known as aggressive, zealous advocates for their clients in all criminal cases, which can make a tremendous difference in the outcome of your case.

We understand that being arrested is a frightening and helpless experience. This is why we pride ourselves in being accessible and available for a free consultation to answer any and all questions you have regarding your case. Our attorneys will do everything to ensure that each client understands our often difficult criminal justice system and understand what strategies can be utilized to obtain the best possible result in their respective case(s).

WHY HIRE A LOCAL ATTORNEY?

Most people searching for a criminal lawyer aren’t aware of the significant advantage that is available to them when they hire an attorney that is local to their area. Getting the best result for your case is likely to come from a lawyer that spends significantly more time within the courts where they regularly practice. Local attorneys are familiar with the courts and the prosecutors likely to be working on your case. It is important that you have the best possible chance at success in your case. If you have a defense attorney working your case who knows exactly what to expect from the prosecuting attorney, your case could greatly benefit. The outcome of your criminal case could result in a drastic and negative change in your life or it could result in little to no change. It is your attorney’s goal to help get you the outcome that results in the least amount of negative change in your life and that of your family.

VIRGINIA CRIMINAL LAWS & PENALTIES

Each state has its own criminal laws. The Reed Law Firm has a comprehensive understanding of the Virginia penal code that benefits each of their clients. Criminal charges are generally separated into two categories: felony offenses and misdemeanor offenses. Depending upon the specific circumstances of your case, you will be charged with one or the other. In some cases involving multiple criminal charges, you may find yourself facing counts of both types of charges.

In Virginia, penalties for misdemeanors are generally defined in Section 18.2-11 of the Virginia Code. The range of punishments for misdemeanors are as follows:

(a) For Class 1 misdemeanors, confinement in jail for not more than twelve months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both.

(b) For Class 2 misdemeanors, confinement in jail for not more than six months and a fine of not more than $1,000, either or both.

(c) For Class 3 misdemeanors, a fine of not more than $500.

(d) For Class 4 misdemeanors, a fine of not more than $250.

Felony charges are treated differently than misdemeanors for purposes of punishment. The following is the range of penalties possible on a felony in Virginia:

(a) For Class 1 felonies, death, if the person so convicted was 18 years of age or older at the time of the offense and is not determined to be mentally retarded pursuant to § 19.2-264.3:1.1, or imprisonment for life and, subject to subdivision (g), a fine of not more than $100,000. If the person was under 18 years of age at the time of the offense or is determined to be mentally retarded pursuant to § 19.2-264.3:1.1, the punishment shall be imprisonment for life and, subject to subdivision (g), a fine of not more than $100,000.

(b) For Class 2 felonies, imprisonment for life or for any term not less than 20 years and, subject to subdivision (g), a fine of not more than $100,000.

(c) For Class 3 felonies, a term of imprisonment of not less than five years nor more than 20 years and, subject to subdivision (g), a fine of not more than $100,000.

(d) For Class 4 felonies, a term of imprisonment of not less than two years nor more than 10 years and, subject to subdivision (g), a fine of not more than $100,000.

(e) For Class 5 felonies, a term of imprisonment of not less than one year nor more than 10 years, or in the discretion of the jury or the court trying the case without a jury, confinement in jail for not more than 12 months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both.

(f) For Class 6 felonies, a term of imprisonment of not less than one year nor more than five years, or in the discretion of the jury or the court trying the case without a jury, confinement in jail for not more than 12 months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both.

In addition to the above, some crimes carry with them, specifically defined penalties. Our attorneys can help you understand the range of sentences that you may be facing if convicted and will be prepared to suggest the best course of action to minimize your personal exposure.

Don’t Delay Hiring an Attorney!

Delaying contact with an attorney can potentially jeopardize the defense of your case. Once retained, our attorneys can assist you in gathering and preserving evidence to be used in your case. This can include police reports, witness statements, videos and 911 calls. In some instances, we can even help you to prevent criminal charges from being filed against you!

At The Reed Law Firm, we know that the best defense is a good offense. We stand ready to aggressively defend you in any criminal matter, should the need arise. We strive to protect your rights, your liberty and your reputation. Please contact us for a free consultation, so that your specific situation can be evaluated.

The Reed Law Firm, P.L.L.C. represents clients throughout Northern Virginia, including, but not limited to Prince William County, The City of Manassas, The City of Manassas Park, The City of Woodbridge, The Town of Haymarket, Fauquier County, The Town of Warrenton, The Town of The Plains, The Town of Remington, Loudoun County, The City of Leesburg, The Town of Middleburg, Arlington County, Stafford County, Fairfax County, including The Town of Vienna, The City of Fairfax, McLean, Tyson’s Corner, Oakton and The City of Alexandria.